Skipping the most important part

Wow, reading this really hit home! For so long, I convinced myself that being 'humble' meant accepting whatever came my way, even if it deep down felt like less than I deserved. But the truth is, as this post brilliantly points out, settling often stems from fear – fear of rejection, fear of abandonment, or even just the fear of being seen as 'asking for too much.' It's a subtle trap, isn't it? We tell ourselves we're just being realistic, when really, we're just playing it safe, staying small, and accepting those "bread crumbs and bare minimums" the OCR mentioned. My own journey to understanding this started when I realized I was constantly feeling drained and undervalued in certain situations, both personally and professionally. I'd watch others confidently pursue their dreams or demand respect, and a part of me would feel a pang of envy, coupled with an inner voice telling me, "That's not for you." But then I started questioning: why not? Why was I so quick to dismiss my own desires and potential? One of the biggest breakthroughs for me was realizing that raising my standards isn't about being arrogant or demanding; it's about honoring my authentic self and recognizing my inherent worth. It means setting clear boundaries, communicating my needs, and being okay with the idea that not everyone will be on board. The OCR's point about "people are gonna fall off" resonated deeply. It's true! When you start valuing yourself more, some relationships or opportunities might naturally fade away because they weren't aligned with your new, higher standard. And honestly, that's okay. In fact, it's more than okay – it's necessary for growth. It makes "room for you" to attract those who truly appreciate and support you. So, how do you actually start raising your standards? For me, it began with introspection. I asked myself: What do I genuinely want? What makes me feel energized and respected? What are my non-negotiables in relationships, friendships, and work? Then, it was about taking small, consistent steps. This could be saying 'no' to something that doesn't serve you, speaking up for yourself in a meeting, or investing in self-care activities that truly replenish you. It's a continuous practice, not a one-time fix. It's about shedding the belief that you're "skipping the most important part" of your self-worth journey. Instead, you're embracing it fully. Remember, knowing your worth isn't about putting others down; it's about lifting yourself up to where you belong. If you're ready to stop settling and start living a life that truly reflects your value, take that first step today. You deserve it!